From record-breaking IPL deals and policy changes to legal battles, player scandals, and Saudi Arabia’s bold cricket ambitions, the past week delivered headlines that could reshape the sport’s power dynamics. Here are the most important stories to catch up on as a new week begins.
1. Inside Saudi Arabia’s $500M cricket ambition: game changer or pipe dream?
Saudi Arabia’s long-rumored entry into global cricket has taken shape with a reported $500 million plan for a world-class T20 league. The move could redefine cricket’s global balance—if it can overcome fierce opposition from established boards.
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2. Cricket’s power struggle: ECB, others push back against Saudi T20 league
Following Saudi Arabia’s entry plans, cricket’s existing power centers—including the ECB and others—are pushing back. Concerns range from player availability to governance control, as global cricket braces for a possible structural shake-up.
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3. Corbin Bosch’s IPL move sparks legal showdown with PCB
South African player Corbin Bosch’s move to the IPL has sparked legal action from the Pakistan Cricket Board, which claims he breached contract terms in a domestic league. The dispute raises questions about player movement and league authority.
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4. BCCI lifts saliva ban for IPL 2025 as game returns to pre-COVID norms
In a symbolic move toward normalcy, the BCCI has lifted the pandemic-era ban on saliva use for ball shining in IPL 2025. The game’s return to pre-COVID playing conditions is being welcomed by bowlers across the league.
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5. Why The Hundred snubbed Pakistan players in latest draft
Multiple Pakistani players were left out of The Hundred’s latest draft, prompting speculation and frustration. Insider reports suggest a mix of availability, scheduling concerns, and political risk factored into the decisions.
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6. Former Australian cricketer Stuart MacGill convicted in drug case
Stuart MacGill has been convicted in a drug-related criminal case, marking a dramatic fall from grace for the former Australian Test spinner. The case has garnered significant attention across the cricket world.
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7. Brad Hogg sparks outrage with ‘disgraceful’ post on Mohammad Rizwan
Former Australian cricketer Brad Hogg faced backlash after a controversial social media post targeting Mohammad Rizwan. Critics have called it disrespectful and inappropriate, prompting renewed discussions around online conduct.
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8. IPL 2025 sees record sponsorship surge as teams cash in big
IPL 2025 is seeing a massive spike in sponsorship deals, with team valuations and ad packages hitting record highs. The commercial momentum highlights the IPL’s status as cricket’s most powerful financial engine.
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9. Harry Brook hit with two-year IPL ban after repeated withdrawals
Harry Brook has been officially banned from participating in the IPL for two years, following multiple last-minute withdrawals. The ban is a strong signal to players and agents about contractual accountability.
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10. Pakistan cricket scandal: 8 players fined for misconduct, protests
Eight Pakistani players have been hit with major fines for misconduct, including protests related to former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s imprisonment. The controversy spotlights growing political undercurrents in Pakistan cricket.
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11. CWI announces new West Indies Breakout League launching in 2025
Cricket West Indies is launching the Breakout League in 2025, a new development tournament aimed at fast-tracking young talent. The initiative could help address player pipeline gaps across the Caribbean.
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12. Former PCB chair and ICC president slams Afridi for ‘personal agenda’
In a rare public rebuke, a former PCB chairman and ICC president has accused Shahid Afridi of pushing personal agendas within Pakistan cricket. The statement adds to growing unrest in the PCB ecosystem.
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13. Abhishek Bachchan partners with Cricket Ireland to promote ETPL
Indian film star Abhishek Bachchan has joined Cricket Ireland to promote the European T10 Premier League (ETPL), marking a new chapter in cricket’s globalization and entertainment crossover.
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14. IPL 2025’s controversial two-ball rule sparks debate
A new two-ball rule introduced for IPL 2025 has divided opinion across the cricketing world. Supporters call it a game-changer for balance, while critics say it adds unnecessary complexity.
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15. Kohli blasts BCCI’s family policy: ‘I won’t sit alone and sulk’
Virat Kohli has taken aim at the BCCI’s restrictive policy on family attendance during tournaments, calling for more humane treatment of players. His comments have reignited the conversation around player wellbeing.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
